July 28, 1914: Austria-Hungary declares war on Serbia, triggering a chain reaction of alliance-bound mobilizations and declarations of war that marked the start of World War I.

Number to Know

10: The number of demands made to Serbia by Austria-Hungary in an ultimatum presented on July 23, 1914, during a period known as “The July Crisis.” The demands were intentionally made to be unacceptable in order to provide a cause for war. Serbia accepted eight of the demands, but Austria-Hungary declared war anyway.

Website of the Day: July Crisis 1914

http://julycrisis1914.wordpress.com

A day-by-day look at correspondence exchanged by diplomats and officials in the final prelude to World War I.

Today’s Featured Birthday

Jim Davis, American cartoonist, best known for his long-running strip “Garfield,” 69.

Daily Quote

“Way down deep, we’re all motivated by the same urges. Cats have the courage to live by them.” — Jim Davis